Lymphatic System and Immune Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the lymphatic system and its role in immune function, based on the lecture notes.

What are the primary functions of the lymphatic system?

Transports excess interstitial fluid, serves as a route for absorbed fat, provides immunological defenses, returns leaked proteins to blood.

What is lymph fluid and how is it formed?

Lymph fluid is formed as a filtrate of plasma through blood capillaries, similar to plasma but with lower protein concentration.

What happens if the lymphatic system is blocked or removed?

Edema occurs due to the accumulation of excess tissue fluid.

What is Elephantiasis?

Chronic lymphatic edema characterized by fluid retention, tissue swelling, and thickening of skin, often caused by parasitic worms.

Where are lymph capillaries located and what are their characteristics?

Lymph capillaries are closed-ended tubes near blood capillaries, highly permeable, with one-way minivalves.

What are lymph nodes and what is their function?

Bean-shaped organs along lymphatic vessels that contain phagocytic cells to filter lymph.

What are the primary types of lymphocytes?

T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells.

What is the role of the thymus in the lymphatic system?

The thymus produces hormones that aid in the maturation of T lymphocytes.

What functions does the spleen perform?

Removal of antigens, destruction of aged blood cells, storage of platelets, and synthesis of antibodies.

What are aggregated lymphoid nodules and where are they found?

They are densely packed areas of MALT found in the distal small intestine (ileum) and appendix.